Soldiers will maintain good personal hygiene and grooming on a daily basis and wear the uniform so as not to detract from their overall military appearance.
Good hygiene and grooming habits contribute directly to military discipline, readiness, and professionalism. Soldiers are expected to maintain a clean and orderly appearance at all times, whether in garrison, during training, while deployed, or when conducting official duties in civilian attire. Personal cleanliness reflects individual pride, attention to detail, and respect for Army standards.
Commanders and leaders at every level are responsible for ensuring Soldiers maintain acceptable hygiene and grooming practices consistent with military appearance standards. Failure to maintain proper hygiene may negatively affect unit discipline, morale, health, and overall readiness.
Daily hygiene practices normally include regular bathing or showering, maintaining clean hair and fingernails, proper oral hygiene, and ensuring uniforms and equipment are clean and serviceable. Soldiers should also ensure that uniforms are worn correctly and fit properly in accordance with Army appearance standards.
Body grooming practices must remain conservative and professional in appearance. Grooming or hygiene practices that create an unprofessional appearance, interfere with the proper wear of Army uniforms or equipment, or detract from military image are not consistent with Army standards.
Soldiers operating in field environments or austere conditions are still expected to maintain hygiene standards to the maximum extent possible within operational limitations. Maintaining personal cleanliness in these conditions is important for both health and operational effectiveness.
Leaders should address hygiene or grooming deficiencies promptly and professionally through counseling, corrective training, or administrative action when necessary. Consistent enforcement of grooming and hygiene standards helps preserve the disciplined and professional image expected of all Soldiers in the United States Army.